Sakaja Halts Mukuru Demolitions, Says Operation Was Unlawful

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Tuesday ordered an immediate halt to demolitions in Mukuru Kwa Njenga, saying the operation was unlawful and carried out without authorisation or notice.

Clashes erupted between police and residents as bulldozers moved into the informal settlement to clear houses for a road expansion project. Community organisations said families were forced to flee as homes were demolished while still occupied.

The Mukuru Community Justice Centre accused authorities of ignoring court orders that bar forced evictions, alleging that police used teargas, rubber bullets and live ammunition to disperse protesters. The group said hundreds of households had been left at risk of homelessness.

Residents said they had not been consulted or given notice and feared for their safety. Many said they were not opposed to development projects but wanted proper engagement and clear communication before any relocation.

Governor Sakaja visited the area during the unrest and described the demolitions as illegal and poorly coordinated. He criticised the heavy police presence, saying it escalated tensions unnecessarily. Holding bullet cartridges said to have been fired during the operation, he questioned the use of force in a residential area.

“It is very unfortunate that several agencies can come together to demolish houses without notice or proper communication,” Sakaja said. “We are not against development, but we are against unlawful and inhumane processes.”

He said neither the Nairobi county government nor President William Ruto had approved the demolitions. According to Sakaja, the President confirmed he was unaware of the operation and directed that it be stopped. The governor said the county would work to calm the situation and compile a list of affected families for possible compensation.

The incident has renewed concerns over coordination between national agencies and county governments. Sakaja said state bodies had acted without consulting the county, contrary to the principles of devolution. He referred to similar demolitions in 2021 that were halted following public pressure and court action.

He said that where evictions are unavoidable, they must be conducted lawfully, with consultation, adequate notice and respect for affected communities. He also reminded police and public officials of their duty to protect residents.